In local BSL basketball action on Monday night, Maccabi Tel Aviv lost crucial ground in the title race, falling 68-66 to Maccabi Haifa for its fourth straight loss across all competitions. Haifa was powered by Donta Smith, who registered game-highs in points, with 16, as well in rebounds and assists, with nine apiece.

Tel Aviv big man Sofoklis Schortsanitis was held to just eight points in defeat as the yellow-and-blue remained one point behind leader Hapoel Jerusalem in second place after 25 games played for each club.